A minimally invasive modular system is disclosed for stabilizing the anterior column of the spine through an anterior or lateral approach. Bone anchors are implanted into the vertebral bodies of adjacent vertebrae and serve as a foundation for a fixation system. The anchors comprise an interface surface that allows an interconnecting link to be secured to the anchors in a low-profile manner with minimum protrusion beyond the vertebral members. The link may be secured to the bone anchors to affect a compressive interlocking force between the bone anchors and vertebrae.