Casper DS, et al. - In this retrospective, matched cohort study, the association between surgical site infection (SSI) and mortality was scrutinized. Researchers, furthermore, had an intent to ascertain any factors that predict mortality in those diagnosed with SSI. Significant postoperative morbidity resulting from SSI was reported, with the risk of reoperation, prolonged hospitalization, and need for other invasive procedures. Additionally, this work affords evidence that SSI is associated with an increased mortality following elective spine surgery.