Which of the following is not resected in stapedotomy?
**Core Concept**
The **stapedotomy** procedure is a surgical technique used to treat **otosclerosis**, a condition characterized by abnormal bone growth in the middle ear, which can cause hearing loss. This procedure involves removing part of the **stapes bone** to improve sound conduction. The goal is to restore hearing by creating a small opening in the **stapes footplate**.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
In a stapedotomy, the aim is to preserve the **stapes bone** as much as possible while still allowing for the improvement of sound conduction. This typically involves creating a small hole in the **stapes footplate** and inserting a prosthetic device. The **incus** and **malleus** bones are usually left intact to maintain the natural sound conduction mechanism.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** The **incus** is often preserved in stapedotomy procedures to maintain the ossicular chain integrity.
**Option B:** The **malleus** is also typically preserved for the same reason as the incus.
**Option C:** Part of the **stapes** is indeed modified or partially removed, but the question seems to be about what is "not resected".
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember in stapedotomy is that preserving the **ossicular chain** as much as possible is crucial for maintaining natural sound conduction and minimizing potential complications.
**Correct Answer:** D. None of the above, the correct answer choice is not provided.