Laser axotomy followed by time-lapse imaging is a sensitive way to assay the effects of mutations in C. elegans on axon regeneration. A high quality, but inexpensive, laser ablation system can be easily added to most microscopes. Time lapse imaging over 15 hours requires careful immobilization of the worm.
Williams, W., Nix, P., Bastiani, M. Constructing a Low-budget Laser Axotomy System to Study Axon Regeneration in C. elegans. J. Vis. Exp. (57), e3331, doi:10.3791/3331 (2011).