[Therapeutic consequences of contamination injuries by highly radioactive substances].

A case of plutonium injury of the left hand is used to explain the correct management. In addition to radical surgical excision under repeated monitoring of radioactivity, it is obligatory to commence parenteral chelation therapy with DTPA. Close cooperation with radiological technologists is necessary. Discharges and used bandages have to be analysed for their radioactive content before elimination as radioactive waste. Isolation of the patient is not required. The relevant government department has to be contacted. A health center for radiation victims with special measuring equipment is desirable.