Embodiments herein include an external system and method to detect an implanted lead coupled to an implanted neurostimulation device (INSD). The system and method comprise a handheld probe having electrodes configured to be positioned external to a surface of a patient and proximate to a region of the patient having the implanted lead for an implanted INSD. The electrodes are configured to measure a stimulation output from the implanted lead of the INSD. The system and method include a controller coupled to the electrodes to receive measured signals from the electrodes. The measured signals represent the stimulation output of the INSD. The controller processes the measured signals to obtain lead information. The system includes a user interface to present the lead information to a user. The lead information is indicative of at least one of an operation of the lead and a position of the lead.