If you create a custom menu template that doesn't contain any buttons, you will not be able to choose it for use when you create a chapter index in DVD Studio Pro 4.
For example, when you create a chapter index by dragging a clip from the Asset list to the Menu Editor and choosing Create Chapter Index - Make Connections from the Drop Palette, a dialog appears from which you can choose a template for your newly created menu. However, you will not be able to select any custom template that lacks buttons.