The Tahoe Forest Health System Gastroenterology/Hepatology team is experienced in providing the highest quality gastrointestinal and liver care, backed by the latest data and research. We are located right in your community, with offices and endoscopy units in Truckee and Incline Village. We are a growing team of physicians, physician assistants, nurses, endoscopy technicians, and medical assistants.
We excel at what we do – from working to beat colon cancer to helping patients manage Crohn’s Disease, colitis, heartburn, and countless other digestive diseases. Our providers are specifically trained to care for diseases of the esophagus, stomach, liver, colon, intestines, gallbladder and pancreas.
Meet our provider
Endoscopy & Colonoscopy
James Nachiondo, MD
(530) 587-7698
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Colorectal cancer and the importance of colonoscopy
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States for both men and women combined. Most cases start as polyps—small, abnormal growths—that can take more than 10 years to become cancerous. Often, these growths develop without any symptoms, which makes routine screening essential, even if you feel healthy.
Why colonoscopy matters
Colonoscopy is widely considered the gold standard screening for detecting colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps, offering high accuracy, direct visualization, and immediate treatment capabilities. Doctors can identify and remove polyps during a colonoscopy, preventing cancer from developing altogether. When detected early, colorectal cancer is highly treatable, and survival rates are significantly higher. In fact, studies show that colonoscopies can reduce deaths from colorectal cancer by 60–70%. (Source: National Cancer Institute)
Who should get screened?
- Everyone age 45 and older
- Earlier or more frequent screening may be needed if you have these risk factors:
- A family or personal history of colon cancer or polyps
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis)
- A genetic condition like Lynch Syndrome
If you’re 45 or older, or if you have any risk factors, talk to your healthcare provider about screening options.
Appointments
To schedule or change an appointment at Tahoe Forest Hospital or Incline Village Community Hospital, call (530) 550-6735.
Procedure preparation instructions
In preparation for your upcoming procedure, we have prepared the following documents. Please follow all instructions carefully and call (530) 582-3445 if you have any questions.
- Sutab Prep Instructions (PDF)
- Suprep Prep Instructions (PDF)
- 4 Liter/ Bisacodyl Prep Instructions (PDF)
- Miralax Prep Instructions (PDF)
- Esophagogastroduodenoscopy Prep Instructions (PDF)
Instrucciones en español
