Matthew Harkenrider, MD

Dr. Harkenrider practices radiation oncology specializing in gynecologic, lung, and prostate malignancies.

Dr. Harkenrider leads the gynecologic radiation oncology program. He specializes in advanced radiotherapy techniques for gynecologic malignancies. He has developed the MRI-based gynecologic brachytherapy program (focused internal radiation) and actively conducts research to further improve outcomes and decrease side effects. Use of internal radiation is important to maximize chance of cure for cervical cancer, and we work to ensure all patients get state-of-the-art treatment.

Dr. Harkenrider also leads the lung cancer radiation oncology service. His work promotes the use of multi-disciplinary care in the management of lung cancer. He specializes in the use of advanced techniques like stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT or SABR) and intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) - both of which focus treatment on the tumor and minimize dose to nearby structures. These techniques maximize cure rates and decrease the risk of side effects. Dr. Harkenrider is also investigating the role that radiotherapy can play in combination with immunotherapy to treat lung cancer and how to use radiotherapy to treat patients with metastatic disease.

Dr. Harkenrider additionally treats prostate cancer with brachytherapy (internal radiation) intensty modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT or SABR). Along with Dr. Abhishek Solanki, Dr. Harkenrider developed the high dose rate (HDR) prostate brachytherapy program at Loyola University Medical Center. The program is one of the most vibrant programs in the country. HDR prostate brachytherapy offers use of advanced imaging with MRI to truly customize treatment delivery for the patient. HDR prostate brachytherapy is an excellent option to treat the prostate cancer with increased ability to spare normal structures.