The Avian-RUM Block: A Locoregional Technique for Distal Wing Procedures in Birds—An Anatomical Cadaveric Feasibility Study with a Clinical Illustration

Anaesthesia in birds presents significant challenges due to high mortality rates and marked anatomical variability among species. Multimodal anaesthetic protocols, incorporating locoregional techniques, are recommended to improve analgesia and reduce systemic drug requirements. While brachial plexus blocks are commonly described for avian wing surgery, they carry risks of complications, including vascular puncture and injection into air sacs. This study introduces the “Avian-RUM block,” a novel locoregional technique for the distal wing, adapted from the mammalian RUMM block. Unlike its mammalian counterpart, the Avian-RUM block targets only the radial and median-ulnar nerves, reflecting the absence of a distinct musculocutaneous branch in birds. Using cadavers of rock doves and hooded crows, a dye solution was injected under direct transcutaneous visualisation of the nerves through the brachial skin. Both species showed high rates of nerve staining, with no significant differences between low (0.15 mL/kg) and high (0.3 mL/kg) injection volumes, suggesting that small volumes are sufficient for coverage. Minor interspecific differences reflected anatomical depth of the nerves. A clinical application in a domestic goose is also presented to contextualise the findings within a clinical setting. This approach represents a practical, anatomy-based technique that may enhance the effectiveness of avian anaesthesia across diverse settings.