Twelve patients with a median age of 73 years were treated for complete rectal prolapse by Delorme's operation. The patients were mildly sedated, and local anaesthesia with lidocaine--adrenaline was administered submucously. No postoperative mortality or cardiopulmonary complications occurred. After a medial follow-up of 3 years, two recurrences were found. The Delorme procedure seems to be superior to the Thiersch operation, and the postoperative mortality and morbidity is equally low. Delorme's operation should be considered as an alternative treatment for complete rectal prolapse in patients who are not suitable for a transabdominal procedure.