Laser ablation with electromagnetic energy feedback

Embodiments of a surgical laser systems may include a laser source configured to generate a laser energy; a laser fiber optically coupled to the laser source to discharge laser energy; a photodetector configured to generate an output signal indicative of an intensity level of electromagnetic energy feedback produced in response to the discharge of the laser energy; and a controller configured to control the laser source based on the output signal. Embodiments of a method of controlling a surgical laser system also are disclosed, wherein laser energy is generated using a laser source and discharged through a laser fiber. Electromagnetic energy feedback produced in response to discharging the laser energy is delivered to a photodetector. An output signal from the photodetector is analyzed using a controller. The laser source is controlled in response to analyzing an output signal using the controller.