Various approaches are disclosed for simultaneously generating optical coherence tomography (OCT) and confocal scanning laser images by spatially separating the signal normally used for OCT imaging with selective reflecting or beam directing devices. In one preferred embodiment , the invention includes a mirror having a central transmission region, such that the radially outer region of the returning signal beam is reflected and used for generating a confocal image while the central part of the signal beam is transmitted and used to generate an OCT image. In other embodiments , the signals may be spatially separated in other ways such as with an optic having a reflective center surface , a mirror having two parts oriented at different angles, one or more wedged optics , or a dispersive component. A further aspect of the invention is the ability to increase the frame rate of the confocal imaging.
