Siemens 3D mammography machine at Glacial Ridge Hospital in Glenwood, MinnesotaBreast Exams and Breast Health

Glacial Ridge Hospital offers advanced wide-angle 3D mammography using the latest Siemens imaging system — designed to provide clearer, more accurate results than standard 2D technology. That means higher diagnostic accuracy for detecting early breast cancer and fewer callbacks for a second look.

Glacial Ridge also provides mammograms for women with breast implants. In addition to screening for early breast cancer, these exams can also help identify implant concerns such as leakage or rupture.

To schedule a screening in Glenwood, call the Radiology Department at 320.634.2273.

Benefits of Breast Exams with 3D Mammography

  • A more comfortable exam experience
  • The lowest radiation dose possible with uncompromised image quality
  • Tailored exams with individual dosing needs
  • Wide-angle imaging at 50 degrees for better tissue visualization

Schedule your annual well-woman exam and mammogram on the same day for your convenience.

Screening Guidelines for Breast Health

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American College of Radiology, and the Society of Breast Imaging recommend that women at average risk begin annual mammograms at age 40. Because there are many risk factors, women are encouraged to talk with their doctor about when to begin screenings and how often to have them.

For women at risk for breast cancer, our breast health team encourages following these breast cancer screening recommendations:

  • Breast self-awareness
  • Clinical breast exam
  • Mammography
  • Advanced diagnostic imaging

Breast Imaging

A routine breast health evaluation should include imaging. Here are the three major types:

  • Mammography – 2D and 3D
    • Glacial Ridge offers both. 3D mammography is a meaningful step forward in accuracy and image clarity.
  • Ultrasonography
    • An Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of breast tissue and can be helpful for women with dense breasts or those at higher risk.
  • Breast MRI
    • An MRI can determine the extent, size, and distribution of recently diagnosed breast cancer. It may also be used to screen women at high risk or when a mammogram result is unclear. When a breast MRI is needed, Glacial Ridge coordinates a referral to an appropriate facility.

Breast Biopsy

Following imaging, suspected breast disease can be confirmed by performing a tissue biopsy. Our surgeons expertly perform breast-conserving surgery for patients at Glacial Ridge. Their goal is to catch the disease in its early stages to increase the chances of survival.

A sentinel lymph node biopsy is a surgery that removes lymph node tissue to look for cancer. It is used to determine whether a known cancer has spread from the original site, and may be done instead of a more extensive lymph node dissection.

Early Detection Makes a Difference

When breast cancer is found before it has spread outside the breast, the five-year survival rate is nearly 100%. Regular screening mammograms are one of the most effective tools for finding cancer at its earliest and most treatable stage, often before a lump can be felt or symptoms appear.

Breast Density and Screening

Breast density is an important part of understanding your mammogram results. Dense breast tissue can make it harder to spot abnormalities and is associated with a slightly higher risk of breast cancer. If your results show dense breast tissue, your radiologist may recommend additional imaging such as an ultrasound or MRI. Your provider can help you understand your results and next steps.

Learn more about breast density and what it means for your health.

Need Help Covering the Cost?

Minnesota’s SAGE Screening Program provides breast and cervical cancer screenings for women without adequate insurance coverage. Call 651.201.5600 to see if you qualify, or ask our radiology staff for more information.