Apparatus, methods, systems, procedures and implants for linking two or more anchors engaged to two or more vertebrae of a spinal column are provided. The systems include a plate assembly to stabilize one or more vertebral levels with first and second plate segments pivotally coupled to one another between anchors engaged to respective vertebrae of the vertebral level. The plate segments are manipulated to secure the plate segments to the respective vertebrae and lock the plate segments in position relative to one another.
