System and method for estimating location and depth of stimulation leads

An external control device for use with a stimulation device capable of conveying an electrical signal to a stimulation lead implanted within a patient, and measuring an electrical parameter in response to the conveyance of the electrical signal, comprising:

• telemetry circuitry configured for communicating with a stimulation device;
• a processor configured for receiving the measured electrical parameter from the stimulation device via the telemetry circuitry, selecting one of a plurality of different anatomical regions in which the stimulation lead is implanted based on the measured electrical parameter, and defining a stimulation parameter based on the selected anatomical region;
• and
• a controller configured for instructing the stimulation device via the telemetry circuitry to convey electrical stimulation energy from the stimulation lead in accordance with the defined stimulation parameter.