How come they can't surgically remove liver cancer if there is fluid around the area? what are other treatments?

We do such resection: The resection of liver tumors is not predicated on presence of ascitic fluid. It depends on size of lesion, position of tumor and number of the nodules present. Ascites usually signifies peritoneal metastasis or portal hypertension. If absent resection considered. If more than 3 lesions or if difficult site for initial resection then chemoembolization or isotope infusion initially employed.

Fluid collection: If the fluid collection(effusion) is related to multiple liver malignant lesions, surgical treatment would not be possible. However the physicians,surgeons and oncologists involved in the case would be best qualified to answer your question.