Before replacing the cylinder you will have to check for what wires burned up inside the column. Sounds like the ignition cylinder either stuck in the start position, causing the starter to stay engaged, or there was an initial short that occurred when the key was turned and melted a wire.
Disconnect the battery before doing anything, especially if there is a air bag involved. Let it sit for about fifteen minutes. The face portion of the steering will probably have to be removed from the back side to access the nut to remove the wheel. The wheel may have to be removed via a steering wheel puller. There may also be a cowl around the steering column which will have to come off to access the wiring. Where there is smoke, there is a definite overheated wire which may have completely melted. You will have to find the location of the smoke, do the repair, before changing the cylinder.