Fridge compressor pipe squashed?

Having just moved house I have found that a small pipe from the fridge/freezer compressor has become squashed. It does not connect to anything, there is no obvious connection on the end and the fridge appears to be working ok. There is no sign of any cracks or leaks but I am worried that this pipe may be a pressure release valve and that the fridge is unsafe to use without it. The fridge is an Indesit BAAN 12SUK. Am I worrying about nothing or should I replace the compressor (expensive!). Many thanks.

Rob Trewinnard-Boyle
June 2008