Systems and methods are provided that include a plate member (120, 140, 160, 180) engageable to the spinal column with an anchor assembly (20, 320, 420). The anchor assembly (20, 320, 420) includes a coupling member (30, 130, 330, 430) having a post (32, 332, 432) extending through at least one opening of the plate member (120, 140, 160, 180) and an anchor member (70) pivotally captured in a receiver portion (34, 334, 434) of the coupling member (30, 130, 330, 430) below a lower surface of the plate member (120, 140, 160, 180). A locking member (90) secures the plate member (120, 140, 160, 180) to the coupling member (30, 130, 330, 430). The coupling member (30, 130, 330, 430) may include an extended post (332, 432) with a proximal removable portion. The extended post (332, 432) facilitates placement of the plate member (120, 140, 160, 180) in position relative to the anchor assembly (20, 320, 420) when engaged to the patient and may be employed to reduce the plate member (120, 140, 160, 180) toward the anchor assembly (20, 320, 420) when engaged to a vertebra.